Dressing For A Court Appearance

When you go into court to have your offense expunged, you need to be aware that how you act and appear will affect your chances for success. While it may not be fair to judge you based on something like the manner in which you are dressed, you need to be aware that judges have seen hundreds of people just like you coming in to try to have charges expunged. By presenting yourself as a sober, upstanding individual, you make the judge more likely to view you as such. And anything that helps your case is a good thing.

Selecting Appropriate Attire For Court

The way you dress and groom yourself sends out subconscious cues to those around you. If you walk into court in ripped jeans and a baseball cap, the judge will not view you as a mature adult. Conversely, even if you're wearing a $5,000 suit, if you look dirty and unkempt you are communicating that you don't take the court seriously. Here are some tips about how to present yourself:

• Dress to impress. If you are a man, wear a clean suit and tie with conservative shoes. If you are a woman, a suit or conservative blouse with slacks or a skirt would be appropriate. The rule of thumb is to dress conservatively and respectfully.
• Make sure you come clean and neat. Clean under your fingernails, make sure your teeth and breath are presentable, and make sure your hair is neat and trim. Again, this communicates that you are mature and responsible.
• Your posture also communicates a lot about you. Make sure you stand up straight and don't slouch. When you address someone, look them in the eye without disrespect, and speak loudly and clearly, without shouting. It's all about being well-spoken and respectful.

Following these tips can help make your court appearance more successful and increase your chances of having your charge expunged.

Contact Us

If you or someone you love is interested in having a criminal charge expunged from the record, contact Rhode Island expungement lawyer James Powderly by calling 401-662-9006.